28 Things to Think About Before Getting an American Alsatian
If you’ve ever seen an American Alsatian, you know they have that striking, wolf-like look that turns heads — but don’t let their appearance fool you. These dogs are total sweethearts. They were specifically bred to be companion animals: calm, affectionate, and loyal. I’ve met a few over the years, and they’re some of the most chill big dogs you’ll ever come across.
Here’s what you really need to know if you’re thinking about bringing one home:
Not Your Typical Guard Dog
Despite their resemblance to a wolf or a German Shepherd, American Alsatians are not bred to be guard dogs. They’re more likely to greet a visitor with a tail wag than a warning bark. That’s great if you want a mellow, friendly companion — not so great if you’re looking for a security dog.
Big, Calm, and Family-Friendly
These dogs are gentle giants. Males usually weigh between 85–120 lbs, and females a bit less. But even with their size, they’re incredibly laid-back. They’re great with kids, other pets, and strangers alike — as long as they’ve been socialized well from puppyhood. I remember visiting a home with two Alsatians lounging on the couch while toddlers crawled all over them. Totally unbothered.
They don’t have a high prey drive either, which means they’re less likely to chase after squirrels or cats.
Surprisingly Low Energy
You might expect such a large dog to be bursting with energy, but American Alsatians are more about quality time than intense activity. A good hour-long walk a day usually does the trick. They enjoy interactive play, but they’re not the kind of dog who needs to run for miles. They’re also pretty quiet — barking isn’t really their thing.
Grooming and Shedding
That thick double coat? It sheds. Heavily. Especially during seasonal changes. You’ll want to brush them every other day, and daily during heavy shedding times. The good news is their coat naturally repels dirt and doesn’t get smelly, so they don’t need frequent baths.
Easy to Train, Eager to Please
If you’re a first-time dog owner, this breed is a solid choice. They’re smart and want to make you happy, so training is usually a breeze. They respond better to praise and attention than food rewards, which I’ve found makes for a more connected training experience.
Health and Lifespan
Like many large breeds, they can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, panosteitis, epilepsy, and bloat. Regular vet checkups and feeding them properly (especially not right before or after exercise) can help prevent some of these issues. They usually live 12–14 years, which is pretty good for a big dog.
Not Hypoallergenic, Not Ideal for Apartments
Their shedding and size make them a poor fit for allergy sufferers. And while they’re not super active indoors, they’re still large dogs — so they’d be happier in a home with some space to stretch out. That said, I’ve seen people make it work in a large apartment as long as the dog gets enough exercise and mental stimulation.
Separation Anxiety is a Thing
These dogs form strong bonds and don’t like being left alone for long. If the house is empty all day, every day, this may not be the breed for you. They do best in homes where someone is around most of the time.
Cost and Availability
American Alsatians are rare, especially outside the U.S., so expect to pay upwards of £1500 for a puppy — and possibly join a waitlist. Monthly care costs (food, insurance, etc.) can average around £140.
Bottom line? If you’re looking for a large, gentle, loyal dog that’s more couch potato than watchdog, the American Alsatian could be a perfect fit. They’re calm, loving companions who just want to be part of the family — and once they are, they’ll stick to you like your shadow.
